Brazos River gets expanded fishing, paddling opportunities in Granbury

The public has a new spot in Granbury to access the Brazos River for fishing and paddling, thanks to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

The TPWD has expanded opportunities on the Brazos and San Marcos rivers with the addition of two new leased river access sites through the River Access and Conservation Area (RACA) program.

These sites, which opened March 1, are private streamside properties where TPWD leases public river access from voluntary landowners who want to support river angling and paddling, according to a TPWD release. Also, several previously leased sites on the Brazos River have reopened after a short hiatus, including Fuller’s Folly River Ranch, Sandy Bottoms River Camp in Parker County, and the lower Brazos River with both access areas of the Brazos River Milam County site.

Expanding public access to Texas rivers is essential for conserving natural resources while providing more recreational opportunities, said John Botros, River Access Program Coordinator for TPWD, in the release.

“By opening new access areas from private properties, we’re not only creating prime locations for fishing and paddling but also fostering a deeper connection to these ecosystems and the surrounding communities,” Botros said.

The location downstream of Lake Granbury is called Rio Libros, and it is located on the east bank of the Brazos River near Rainbow in Somerville County. The location offers complimentary parking and is a put-in point for the six-mile float downstream to TPWD’s leased river access area at Brazos Outdoor Center. Fishing access, whether you’re bank fishing, wading, or launching a canoe or kayak, is available from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. Visitors just need to reach out 24 hours in advance to ensure there’s available space. RSVP here.

Remember that under Texas law, the riverbed is public property up to the “gradient boundary.” Though the definition of the boundary can be confusing, it roughly means the point where more woody plants begin to grow. So be sure before you get on the water you know where you can exit the riverbed.

The new location on the San Marcos River is near Fentress in Guadalupe County. Learn more here: River Grove Get In.

Always remember that rivers pose the challenge of changing conditions, which can occur rapidly. The weather may be calm in one area but stormy upstream, causing the water to rise rapidly. Stay aware of your surroundings and check out BrazosBasinNOW to see area streamflow. The National Weather Service is also a good resource for planning a safe trip to the river. You can check here to see the weather forecast for the area you plan to visit or, as important, upstream.

Don’t forget to leave no trace. If you bring it in, take it out. Take only pictures. Leave only footprints.

See the full list of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department’s River Access and Conservation Areas here.